Abstract

Introduction

Materials & Methods

Results

Discussion & Conclusion

References

Discussion
Board

Inositol is a natural isomer of glucose that is the precursor in the phosphatidylinositol (PIP) cycle, a source of two second messengers: diacylglycerol (DAG) and inositol triphosphate (IP3). Reports from clinical studies indicate that inositol can be effective in relieving symptoms of depression in patients. To permit the study of the mechanism of this effect animal research may be necessary. The present study examined the effects of inositol on two animal models of depression: the Porsolt forced swim test, a behaviorally based model; and the reserpine induced immobility model, a pharmacologically based model. Chronic inositol injections (daily, for 14 days) 1.2 gm/kg but not in lower doses, reduced immobility time and increased struggle time in the Porsolt test compared with control animals. The same dose and treatment schedule also reduced 'complete immobility time' but did not affect ambulatory activity in the reserpine test compared with controls. Chronic oral treatment with inositol (10% in food for 14 days) had similar effects to injections in the Porsolt test. The effects of inositol in animal models of depression support its possible importance as a new treatment for the disorder, and permit research on its mechanisms of action.

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Poster Number PAeinat 0317
Keywords: inositol, depression, forced swim test, reserpine, animal models